The Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) of the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) recently explored the development of a Doctor in Sustainability (DSus) elective course on Sustainable Tourism offered through a microcredential program.

The initiative aims to provide flexible and accessible learning opportunities for professionals, students, and community stakeholders interested in sustainable tourism practices. Through microcredentials, learners can gain focused competencies in areas such as responsible tourism, community engagement, environmental stewardship, and sustainable destination management.

The meeting was attended by UPOU officials, including Dr. Joane V. Serrano, Chancellor of the UPOU; Dr. Finaflor F. Taylan, Dean of the FMDS; and Dr. Ricardo Bagarinao, Program Chair of the DSus Program. Representatives from the UP Asian Institute of Tourism (AIT) also joined the discussion, including Asst. Prof. Giovanni Francis A. Legaspi, Dean of AIT; Asst. Prof. Maria Carmela M. Ibañez, Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Institute Secretary; Asst. Prof. Miriam Salvacion L. Oreta, Director of the Division of Academic Affairs, and Dr. Marie Danielle V. Guillen, Associate Professor of AIT.

Through initiatives such as this, UPOU continues to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative learning pathways that contribute to sustainable development, responsible tourism practices, and capacity-building for professionals and communities.

Written by: Dona Lyn M. Piamonte • Edited by: Larry N. Cruz

Sustainable Development Goals